The founders of a new colony, whatever Utopia of human virtue and happiness they might originally project, have invariably recognized it among their earliest practical necessities to allot a portion of the virgin soil as a cemetery, and another portion as the site of a prison.

Many writers lay very great stress upon some definite moral purpose, at which they profess to aim their works.

Writing can come naturally to some. Still, when it comes to good writing, this is true: Easy reading is damn hard writing.

Time flies over us, but leaves its shadow behind.

It contributes greatly towards a man's moral and intellectual health, to be brought into habits of companionship with individuals unlike himself, who care little for his pursuits, and whose sphere and abilities he must go out of himself to appreciate.

Dream strange things and make them look like truth.

Sleeping or waking, we hear not the airy footsteps of the strange things that almost happen.